31st Street - C&O Canal Bridge
Georgetown, Washington D.C.
KGP, as Design Architect, collaborated with AECOM Engineering to deliver concept through construction document phase services for the 31st Street Bridge in Georgetown, commissioned by the District Department of Transportation. Spanning the historic C&O Canal, the project introduces a contemporary design that acknowledges the canal’s rich history of bridge evolution. Inspired by the 19th-century wooden and steel structures that once graced the canal, the design pays homage to their elegance without mimicking their exact forms, striking a balance between modernity and respect for the historic context.
The bridge design was developed after analyzing various alternatives, some of which included traditional forms and materials to echo the historical character of the canal. Each option was evaluated for its ability to balance functionality with the unique demands of the site. The chosen design enhances the pedestrian experience with generous seating areas that provide views of the canal and encourage people to gather. Wooden planks and a rhythmic steel tension-plate screen were selected to create a tactile and visually engaging experience, offering a thoughtful transition from the urban streetscape. Low-level lighting beneath the seating platform ensures safety while highlighting the bridge’s structure, blending practicality with aesthetic appeal.
Type of Project
BRIDGES
Location
Georgetown, Washington D.C.
Client
District Department of Transportation
Status
Design Completed 2015 - Construction Completed 2018
Role
Bridge Designer
Team
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